The California Community College System is the largest system of higher education in the world with 110 campuses. Community colleges offer a smooth transition to a four-year institution.
For many students, the community college offers a quality lower-division academic or vocational college education at value prices.
Programs include:
For more information on the California Community Colleges, visit www.cccco.edu.
What is Priority Registration?
If you complete all the necessary steps early and in a timely manner, you will be eligible to register early (and hence get the classes you need!). For example, Orange Coast College has registration week starting May 8th, but students will need to complete all the steps well in advance to get a desirable registration time. Below are a few local community colleges and their steps outlined.
Coastline College (Enrollment Steps)
Golden West College (Enrollment Steps)
Irvine Valley College (Enrollment Steps)
Orange Coast College (Enrollment Steps)
Santa Ana College (Enrollment Steps)
Why would I pick one community college over another?
If your goal is transfer to a four-year university, it does not matter what community college to attend as they all have courses that transfer. Universities do not give preferential treatment for one community college over another.
If, however, you’d like to participate in a particular career program, each community college has different signature programs that can help you prepare for that career pathway. Below are a few (list not exhaustive).
Coastline College: Cybersecurity, Nutrition & Dietetics, Computer Information Systems
Golden West College: Nursing, Cosmetology & Esthetician, Automotive Technology
Irvine Valley College: Design Model Making & Rapid Prototyping, Paralegal
Orange Coast College: Pilot Certification, Culinary, Construction
Santa Ana: Fire Academy, Welding
I have questions on the application who can I contact?
Email the admission office of the school you’re interested to attend. Some colleges like: Coastline College have one-on-one application appointments here. Alternatively… there is no school on Monday January 30th – which is a PERFECT opportunity to visit the campus and get help on the application should you get stuck.
How much are community college applications?
They’re free!
Do I need to fill out the FAFSA/ California Dream Act?
Yes! Even if you think you don’t qualify it is a necessary part of the Community College application. Need help with Financial Aid – visit the College and Career Center Financial Aid page for information and resources.